Vaid Empire: Conquest Ch. 80

Vaid Empire: Conquest is a massive fantasy series that aims to mix erotica with the quality of a published novel. New chapters and artwork are released every month for free, with the completely optional possibility to receive early access on the official Vaid Empire Website. The Series focuses heavily on worldbuilding, story, and characters.

The world of Ayphieal is shattered and chaotic, with kingdoms and tribes of six distinctive races vying for territory amongst themselves. It is only when a young human warrior finally pushes back against the chaos that the world begins to shift towards order.

***

45th of Twic, 15 AVE.

Kingdom of Harin, Great City of Visti.

The inevitable fate of the azure city arrived with thunderous steps. Sealing the ports had proved useless, for the legion fleet merely landed upon the beaches and marched towards the blue walls. The God Emperor had come for his prize.

Standing atop the gate, the largest in the entire Human Basin, Princess Witla peered down. Her reddish-orange hair flowed in the breeze, standing proudly without a hint of the war raging within her. The men were observing, waiting. Young boys trembled at her side. Old men stood wearily. Did dead kings watch her now, or were they long gone?

None were left to save them. A lucky few of the men around her had witnessed the destruction of her brother's army in person, having been separated during their retreat. What little remained in Winexia had been captured when the city fell. Now, with both Kinia and Spirexia under The Empire's control, none in the north remained to stand against them.

There was no question who led the horde below, for a silence fell across the land as The God Emperor peered up at her. He raised a severed head for all to see. His silver eyes never left her, piercing, glowing.

No longer could reports of her brother's fall be questioned. Even far below, the blistered head made her lips tighten. There was no place for emotion. Not here. She'd allow no song to speak of her tears.

She met his gaze, knowing she held no leverage. Their farms and mines had been seized, and resistance would only lead to prolonged starvation. She could only hope the creature behind those strange glowing eyes retained a hint of humanity.

A soundless breath escaped her as she turned towards the gatekeepers. With a nod, history was sealed. The colossal gate began to rise, and the greatest human city in the world fell without a single word.

***

Dominax granted Siril's head to a legionary as the gate winches groaned and creaked. Thousands stood with their blades ready behind him. Only when the gate opened fully did he step forward with Irith and his advisors just behind.

Entering the city, he closed his eyes to savor the moment. After decades, they had arrived. When he was satisfied, he watched the fiery-haired woman descend the stairs against the wall to kneel before him. Two decorated servants hauled a heavy box made of gold, placing it at her knees.

"God Emperor Dominax of House Vaid," the woman announced in the imperial tongue. "I submit Visti to your control, yet I ask you to grant my people the mercy you showed the citizens of Winexia. I must have your word."

"You knew the futility of that when you opened your gate. Long have you called us barbarians and savages. How fortunate you are to be wrong," Dominax replied coldly, towering over her.

Seeing she'd get no better answer, she hesitantly unlatched the lid of the box. Opening it, she revealed a golden crown within, safely stored away during wartime. "Then I, Princess Witla of House Harlin, present my brother's crown."

Dominax watched her offer the ancient object with firm and elegant hands, impressed by how they concealed the emotion he sensed within her. Claiming it, he watched sunlight gleam off its surface. "As decorated as your king, yet that didn't save him." He tossed it back into the box. "Gold may melt or bend. You'll find that mine cannot be destroyed so easily."

Witla stared vacantly as slaves retrieved the box, hauling it along as The God Emperor began to march down the street of smooth brick. She was broken from her trance when Clin reached down to help her stand. "My lady," he said before granting her an apologetic look, seeing that the street had torn her vibrant blue dress. He allowed her to follow at his side as the legion filled the street in neat lines, led by their ruler towards Visti Castle.

"Then this is how they lived while our ancestors suffered in huts for a millennium," Dominax said as the blue buildings passed by. They seemed unending, one after another. The windows had been blocked, yet he could sense them inside, passing hundreds of cowering citizens. Occasionally he spotted a curious child peeking from behind drapes, only to be snatched away. "Wealthy, protected, yet still they match us for blood. Endless raids and skirmishes in the south, while a single war between northern kingdoms devastates their populations for a generation. No longer."

Irith felt a chill, knowing all too well the reality of his words. She felt as though she were walking through a memory. The buildings had subtly changed in the nearly two decades since she had last stepped foot in Visti, yet never did she believe she'd ever return. Not truly. She whispered directions into her mate's ear as he led them through the massive city.

With every step, Dominax felt his ire growing. "Briza, I've arrived," he thought to himself. She should be with him, at his side as they savored their victory together. Instead, she was in Nitri, rotting in the dirt beside her mother. He had avenged them, avenged humanity itself, for no future human would be born outside his Eternal Peace.

For a single moment he allowed a thought of Xenia, banishing it quickly. The vile traitor had done her part, he couldn't deny. By pulling him from the river all those years ago she had unknowingly ensured the fall of the oldest human kingdoms.

The castle came into view, imposing, yet a grin crept across Dominax's lips. As fabled and ancient as Visit was, The Grand Pyramid dwarfed its legendary stronghold. Squat and wide, the castle was lined with thin towers, their blue ariz paint fading near their tips under the sun.

They ascended the stairs outside the castle, the very place so many kings had stood to address their subjects. If the city had been a memory, Irith found herself in a dream as the main doors were hauled open to reveal the throne room. Stretching far, the throne at its end, the chamber was unchanged. Passing the many pillars decorated with deep blue banners, Irith moved with uneasy steps, knowing she had been at Enil's side the last time she had entered. Her twin's enemy strode towards the throne, her mate, the father of her children. She gripped the hilt of her sheathed sword for support, feeling unsteady as she slowed her pace.

The great throne sat empty as Dominax stood before it, a polished seat of stone etched with intricate patterns. "For nearly a thousand years the rulers of Harin have kept the throne warm for my arrival. Their every decision, wise, foolish, cruel, may be discarded to the wind, for their Era is at an end. The age of chaos takes its final breath as an age of order and peace prepares to take its place." He sat down slowly, sensing echoes of the past. How many had come before? "Now, we may begin. Long live The Vaid Empire!"

"LONG LIVE THE GOD EMPEROR!" shouts erupted through the chamber and out into the city as the legion cheered.

Dominax leaned back on the throne, his advisors at his side. Humanity was his, unified, yet they stood against the world. One conquest ended, and another rested upon the horizon.

Never would he stop until all of Magnius lay under his protection.

48th of Twic, 15 AVE.

Kingdom of Harin, Great City of Visti.

Arinax shivered as he pulled his cloak around himself, squeezing his mother's hand. He wasn't certain if the cold of the chamber was the source of his unease, or the way his father stared at the bodies in silence.

Resting upon stone slabs, the bare corpses of Queen Regent Felza, Gravis, Zovix, and several deceased Privictis recruits had been placed on display, their skin cleaned of blood by slaves. Had they been able to recover Elmia's body from the river, she would've joined her morbid companions.

"Such is the price of war, child," The God Emperor's deep voice finally broke the silence. "Look upon a hint of what we lost, the worthiest of our fallen. A single battle. A single war. Such is the nature of living beings. Such is why we are necessary."

Arinax flinched at each word, feeling as though his father's voice would creep into his soul and claim him. "I... understand..."

Dominax offered no warmth as he turned to his son. "No. Not truly, but you will. You shall reign after I've abandoned this world, and on that day, my Eternal Peace shall be yours to uphold. Look upon their faces."

Behind the boy, Irith released his hand to hold his shoulders, protectively pulling his small body against hers. "My love, perhaps we should wait until he is older."

"He is older than the youngest of our warriors in training." Dominax stepped closer, placing his hands atop hers. She stood firm, yet his intense gaze offered no compromise. After a moment as she endured the silence, knowing she must bend or break, she finally slid her hands out from underneath his with a hidden scowl. This would not be the battle in which she'd risk everything. Not yet.

Arinax reluctantly obeyed as his father's firm hands forced him closer. The slabs were low to the ground, making his legs tremble. Fear urged him to close his silver eyes, yet he fought his terror, bearing it in silence.

"The dead in this room are but a sample of history. Countless beings have been slaughtered under the rule of lesser leaders. Countless after us will fall without the order and stability we shall bring." Dominax swept his hand to gesture to the bodies. "Witness the faces of death, son. They fell because a northern king clung to his power and throne, rather than submitting to the understanding that we know what's best for them all. His people will gradually be divided, relocated, and mixed with other populations within The Empire. In time, we shall become a unified civilization of a single culture and language. Such is my design, the structure of peace."

Nervously, Arinax nodded. Every instinct begged him to retreat to his mother's side, yet he fought to remain still.

"All but one of these faces share your blood. Your brothers. Your sisters," Dominax explained. He paused, feeling his jaw tighten as he suppressed a concealed rage. When it passed, his deep voice poured forth as if it were a mist oozing over his son. "The time will come when your own descendants shall spread across Magnius. Granting them a world of peace is but the beginning, for beings of our blood deserve to live in stable prosperity. Do not fail me. Do not fail them."

Irith realized she was fidgeting with her fingers as she watched, her tension easing only when Dominax led the boy from the bodies. She joined them at a table against the far wall, seeing where the three crowns of the northern kingdoms had been placed upon its surface.

"Three northern kings. Three corpses. A ruler must be the best of us, guides for the population," Dominax explained. "Tell me, why did they fail?"

Arinax scrambled for an answer. "Because they were... bad men?"

Dominax frowned. "What is 'bad'? Many would lay that label at my feet for the bloodshed I've caused. Others deem me a virtuous God, thanking me for their comfortable and safe lives. Who is correct?"

Terrified of the wrong answer, the prince swallowed. "Your worshippers, father?"

"Both," Dominax corrected with a disappointed shake of his head. "My deeds are horrifying, as will yours be. Terrible acts to ensure similar atrocities shall not be repeated endlessly. Horrifying, but with purpose." Dominax allowed his words to sink in before nodding towards the crowns. "Once more. Why did they fail?"

For a long moment Arinax pondered, rushing to find a suitable conclusion. He took a breath, trying to claim his panic as he slowed his thoughts. Only when he thought back to his father's words did he find his answer. "Guide. They weren't guides to their people, were they?"

A satisfied chuckle crept from The God Emperor's lips. "Well done, my boy. Good, bad, the only measure of a ruler is their outcome. If a man leads his people to destruction, what right does he have to a crown?"

Irith felt her lips tighten with worry. She watched Arinax's posture relax, seeing the first hints of a relieved smile upon his lips. "None," she heard his little voice say.

"Such is why we've come. Such is why we fight. We pry power from inferior rulers and grant it to beings capable of guiding the population to prosperity." The God Emperor gestured to the crown of Kinia. "King Olvir was no such being, an incompetent ruler caring only for hedonistic pleasures. We enjoy our pleasures only because we've earned them. Such is our reward. Such is the reward we grant to the population, an Empire capable of protecting their pleasures. More is required of a ruler."

Dominax moved his hand to the crown of Spirexia. "Of course, you'd find no such incompetence in King Rolir were he still upon his throne, yet the man lacked conviction, a determination to rule. Serviceable as his reign was, he abandoned his throne the moment the opportunity arose," Dominax explained with a scowl. "A crown is a duty, a burden fit only for those with the will to crave and endure it. One day, you shall bear that duty."

Arinax's smile faded.

Next came the crown of Harin. "Unlike his neighbor to the west, King Siril was determined to rule. He clung to his throne until his dying breath. He believed himself to be a great king, an unmatched warrior, yet his army lays in ruins by my hand. We are arrogant, my boy, because we are superior. No other word may describe our blood, our capabilities, our victories. Arrogance earned is a tool a worthy being may savor. Unearned, and a man may blindly lead his people to their end."

The God Emperor peered at the three crowns as his expression hardened, his eyes moving from one to the next. "Incompetence. A lack of will. Unearned hubris. These traits led to the slaughter of my home. These flaws ended your grandmother's life. We shall purge them from this world, for no one else will."

"What if I..." Arinax started before his fear caught up to him. It was too late to stop now. "What if I'm flawed... father?"

Dominax's grip tightened upon the boy's small shoulder. "You are The Prince Upholder of Vaidrin, the heir to my life's purpose. I shall burn away your flaws."

Every second felt like an eternity as Irith watched her son's fear. She wanted to go to him, to pull him to safety. Instead, she stood silently until the moment her mate dismissed the boy. She eased her quickening heart, feeling relief as she crouched down and beckoned him closer. "Return to your sister, Arinax. I'll join you shortly."

With an obedient nod, the prince departed, leaving his parents alone in the chamber filled with death. Slowly, Dominax made his way to her, placing his hand upon her waist for the first time since Cendra's defeat.

"There were better ways to grant him this lesson," she said carefully in her smooth accent.

"He loses an innocence we never possessed. A small price to pay to prepare him for what's to come." Dominax's expression gradually eased as he allowed her to move closer. "Tell me something, Irith. I've heard rumors you've taken Cendra into your care. Is this true?"

It was inevitable, for he had eyes and ears everywhere. "She came to me, my love. I'm doing what I can to mentor her, in a way. She's... broken, though not entirely lost to us."

He gave a solemn nod. "Then you have my gratitude. She is... very precious to me."

Irith saw hints of the man she loved in his glowing silver eyes. She managed to smile. "I'll do all I can for her. As of now, I've advised her to speak to Clin when she's ready. Isolation shall only harm her further."

"Wise." Dominax appeared to grow hesitant. After a silence, his words sounded bitter upon his tongue like poison. "Have I led her to this?"

The pain in his tone dissolved Irith's misgivings in an instant, reaching up to touch his cheek. Her motherly tone came soothingly. "Don't place that burden upon yourself. Cendra is a strong girl. Give her time, my love, and she will heal."

His scowl remained. "So be it. In any case, I want to merge our quarters once more. No longer shall we sleep apart."

Surprised, Irith smiled with relief before gently kissing him. "I'd like nothing more."

"Then it's settled." He let his scowl fall, yet his words retained a hint of the coldness that had lingered between them. "Unity shall be our shield here until we've assessed the dangers that lurk in this place. Come. There is much to do."

Knowing she risked undoing their progress, she didn't follow as he made for the door. "And Arinax? As I said, Cendra is strong, yet he is..." She met him with pleading eyes. "He requires a gentler hand."

Once more his face hardened. "We'll speak no more of this. The boy is a prince, the heir to my throne. I am this world's end, and he is the future of our new world."

When he left her behind, she found herself alone in the chamber. An emptiness seeped into her as she stared at the corpses, lives cut down in the name of her mate.

A chill ran through her, fearing for Arinax's fate.

5th of Thriduin, 15 AVE.

Kingdom of Harin, Great City of Visti.

The azure city appeared like a dark sea outside the window of Witla's tower. Concealed by the darkness of the night, only the light of candles and torches glowing from windows gave any hint of the vast civilization below. She savored the sight of them, knowing each light was a family that still lived. The God Emperor had kept the vow he hadn't bothered to swear to.

She sat down on the bed, stood up to pace about the tiny room, and sat down again. Whatever her fate, the accursed waiting was the worst of it.

However small, the chamber had been decorated with lavish comforts to keep her occupied, yet they only made her feel like a pampered pet. Perhaps it would've been more dignified to be thrown into the dungeon, a martyr of her people and the nobility. She'd be forced to serve them once more very soon, she knew, rising from the bed again to adjust her dress.

Her "dress" was little more than an arrangement of long flowing fabric, nearly translucent as they flowed down her elegant form like blue waterfalls. She practiced her steps, trying to move with the seduction she had witnessed among the women of the legion.

Tales of The God Emperor's conquests had spread throughout the north long before he stepped foot within Harin's borders. Rumors regarding the fates of royal prisoners were equally well known. Felza of House Kalla, Quinla of House Stire, and now... her. They were members of fallen royal Houses, propped up as figureheads, and each granted an heir. She held no doubt of what awaited her.

Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, she resumed her practiced seduction with determination. Every night after the fall of Visti, she had waited, expecting him to come. Every night she had been both relieved and frustrated when the sun rose from behind Visit's walls while she remained alone.

If her captor was going to take her, so be it. She'd bear it. She'd allow his savage seed to claim her womb. Such was her duty to her family and people, knowing the legacy of her kingdom rested with her alone. She'd continue the royal bloodline of House Harlin, serving in any way she was required to ensure she and her future child remained upon her father's throne. Only then did she have a chance to preserve her people.

Adjusting the fabric draped over her perky breasts and looping around to her back, she brushed her fingers over her nipples, ensuring her little pink buds were hard and visible through the delicate silk. Perhaps tonight would be the night. Perhaps not, and she'd be disappointed when the sun rose. Either way, she'd make herself irresistible to the savage if he came.

Once more she peered out at the window, thinking of her father and brother. They had both served Harin in their own way. Now, it was her turn. "Rest now, for as long as I live, Harin too lives."

She was beginning to feel a dampness gathering in her eyes, touching the white tattoos upon her arms and midriff that were identical to her twin's, before she was startled by the sound of the door unlocking. She spun around, wiping her tears before straightening. "No time for sorrow. No turning back"

The door crept open as she clasped her hands behind her, pushing out her chest. A single doubt remained to her, fearing a mere servant had come with a late dinner. At this hour, however, the only visitor that would come would be the man she had awaited. Candlelight flickered off The God Emperor's armor as he stepped into the room, the sharp points of his helmet gleaming.

"You've tasted the comforts of my hospitality, it seems. Beings that are useful may learn of my generosity." He stepped towards her, leaving the door open.

The moment had arrived. She moved closer, hips swaying seductively as her expression remained proud and elegant. She'd be no less than a princess with him, no matter what brutality he'd inflict upon her. That'd be her victory. "You've kept me waiting, my lord."

Dominax stopped, meeting her with careful eyes. The fabric caressed her slim and graceful curves, allowing him to see nearly every detail. If her outfit was water, her hair was a simmering fire, flowing to trickle down her shoulders. He frowned at her false smile. "A curious game, yet keep your tricks. Greet the man who dethroned your brother with honesty, or I'll find another noble girl to serve my aims."

Taken off guard, she stopped. "Honesty?"

"You despise me. Such is natural, and thus I'll permit it. That is where we'll begin," he replied.

Witla swallowed, her plan already slipping through her fingers. She folded her slim arms across her chest. "If you insist upon the truth, I'll offer no denial. I know what you've done and will do. Further, I know why you're here now. You'll find no resistance from me."

"Better," Dominax chuckled in amusement. "We'll take another step. I've spoken to many of your former peers to assess you first. You're no fool. You must know why I'm here."

She straightened, clinging to her dignity despite the words she must utter. "To... take your pleasure. Anyone can see the pattern, whether you acknowledge your part in the pregnancies of your captives or not. I've seen what you've done to the princesses Felza and Quinla, and others within your own borders." Her lips thinned with disgust. "If you've come to force your child upon me, so be it. I'll bear it, as a mother should. Only... I've asked you to extend Visti the same mercy as Winexia. Now, I ask for the same mercy you granted the others."

"Ah, so I've come to force myself upon you?" he asked, his tone low and insidious. "A naive girl preparing for the worst, yet you fail to understand your position." He studied her body, causing her to step back. "As alluring as you are, I have no shortage of lovers to satisfy my desires. There'd be no purpose in taking you against your will, for I only have use for those with the ambition to seize the opportunities I offer. Felza and Quinla understood this well. Princesses you call them, yet I've made them queens."

Witla felt her blood quickening, unfolding her arms. "Ambition? My lord, I seek no less than the throne of Harin. There is your honesty. The others sit upon their ancestral thrones beneath your rule, raising your children. I'd do the same."

Curiosity coaxed a grin as he approached, close enough to take in her royal scent. "The very words I had hoped for. As of now, you are merely a womb with blood I find convenient to my aims. In time, however, you may become a vital asset." He caressed her fiery hair, seeing her shudder at his touch. "Yet you're not ready."

"I... AM ready." She pressed closer, hands on his chestplate. A kingdom rested upon her shoulders, the fate of her ancient bloodline within reach. "Please, I shall show you how useful I can be, my lord. Do what you must, and I shall bear it."

Dominax's fingers glided over the soft skin of her arms, peering down at her round breasts. "Bear it? You shall, yet I'd see you crave it first. Besides, I came to retrieve you for a surprise." He offered his arm. "Come."

Uncertain what could possibly await her, she stood still, knowing every second risked swaying his mind against her. His patience rapidly faded, and as the fate of a millennium of history screamed at her to proceed, she accepted.

He led her from her decorated prison, arm in arm. Descending from the tower, he escorted her through the castle.

Witla felt her chest tightening with emotion as they walked. The blue banners of her House had been torn down, replaced with white. Legionaries strode through the halls she had explored as a child. This was no longer her home, but a mockery.

"Where are you taking me?" she asked, almost afraid of the answer. It was a curious thing to witness everyone they passed bow before her captor. Her own citizens had shown her father respect, yet this? The legion worshiped their false God.

"I'm leading you to a gift. It's your choice to follow your curiosity or put an end to this opportunity."

She would not turn back. Calming herself, she continued to walk, feeling like a visitor in her own castle. The eyes of guards studied her without restraint as they passed, making her feel more exposed than she already was. At this hour, she had expected to find the halls empty. Now, she wished she had requested to put on something more modest, keenly aware of how the torchlight trickled through her transparent silks.

At the very least, she wasn't alone in her exposed state. The outfits of the women she passed made her blush and advert her gaze. Legionaries wore tight one-suits beneath their armor, nearly a second skin that left little to her imagination. Worse, the slave wore less, their bodies on full display as they went about their business. "Savages," she thought, wanting to cover herself as she felt the silk brushing against her nipples.

"Your own guards still live. They stood down without resistance, and thus they were spared. Your actions tonight shall determine the amount of freedom I grant you, and whether you may assess their condition for yourself in the coming days," The God Emperor explained as he led her.

Another small relief. "And the population? One would hope you'd spare the population of your new capital."

"Capital?" He slowed his pace. "You overstep. Visti is a monument, The Azure City, yet Domani shall overtake it in time. You know little of what we've built in the south, yet I may show you some day."

Once more she eased. "Then your presence here is temporary. All the more reason to place me upon the throne."

Pleased, he smirked. They continued down one staircase, then another, ever moving lower within the squat castle. "You'll have ample time to prove yourself. My court shall remain in Visti until I can restore stability and ensure our control remains complete in my absence. Humanity is unified, yet there is much to do."

She accepted his words with silent determination. As they reached ground level, she dared to speak. "Perhaps I can be of use this very moment. There are... were... many translators within my service. They taught me your tongue when it was clear a new power had arisen in the south. If you intend to stay in the north for a time, I may grant you their names, and they shall teach you our language."

Dominax peered at her from the corner of his eye. "Why learn a dead tongue?"

Though her lips parted, she endured in silence. Perhaps she could stomach such a blow to her culture, she hoped, so long as she could salvage the rest.

When they reached the final hallway, Witla felt a nervous tingle in her belly. This path led to a single destination. "The royal crypts, my lord?"

A nod was his only answer.

They descended the stairs, delving deeper and deeper as they followed the subterranean tunnel. Torches had been lit in preparation, blazing upon the damp walls as she subconsciously pressed closer to him.

"The bones of dead kings, unable to awake to prevent their Era from coming to an end. I shall have their descendant grant me a tour of their shattered legacy as we seek your gift." Dominax gestured to the entrance of the Crypt as they reached the bottom of the stairs. The heavy stone doors had already been pulled open.

Swallowing, she obeyed, holding her head high with dignity. "If that is your wish." She held his arm tighter as they entered the maze of corridors, the flickering orange light bathing the stone tunnels leading through each tomb. The oldest were closest to the surface tunnel, roughly constructed and undecorated. The first was small with a low ceiling, forcing Dominax's towering frame to slightly bend. "We believe these contain what remains of the bones of Haricala and Targalin passed down to us, the twin founders of Visti." She gestured to a square stone box. "Beside them is the skull of Chief Witala, their mutual great-grandson who was conceived to unite both branches of the family."

Dominax smiled knowingly as he viewed the large vase that contained the skull, thinking of his own breeding project. "Uniting each branch," he thought to himself, his hidden designs for House Vaid already in motion.

They passed generations of chiefs, many of their names lost to time. Dominax freed his arm from her grasp as they walked into the next tomb, moving it instead to her back.

"Harlil The Prophet, first king of Harin. He is alleged to have discovered the holy texts of the gods Venitis, Zuan, and Sanivir," she explained, feeling his hand creeping lower down her slim back. His fingers brushed against her fair skin through her silks, bringing a blush to her cheeks.

"Harlil The Deceiver, in truth." The cloak of The God Emperor flowed behind him with each step.

"So you say," Witla replied coldly before changing the subject. "Deceiver or not, his grandson is through there." She gestured to the entrance of a separate tomb as they passed through a tight corridor, the stonework above the sealed door crudely etched with the image of a swordsman battling a monstrosity. "King Tivir, slayer of the Boulivai."

They moved through several chambers, each growing as the centuries passed. Silver began to decorate the sarcophaguses, then gold, each becoming more intricately decorated. It was only a matter of time before Dominax's hand found her rear, lightly caressing her feminine rump.

"King Harlil The Third, infamous for siring three dozen known bastards during his lifetime." She felt his touch, her elegant face burning with indignity. Surrounded by her ancestors, she could do nothing as she was groped.

Dominax frowned, unimpressed. "A number I easily surpass each moon."

Another chamber came and went. Some contained many bodies, while others held only one sarcophagus, grand and solitary. Dominax caressed his guide, fingers gradually exploring up and down her back until she felt she'd melt with shame. Only when she saw the entrance to her grandfather's tomb was her conviction renewed.

"King Witlan The Second, my namesake," she announced as they entered, standing before the gold sarcophagus. The walls around them were etched in the king's history and image, the lines carefully filled with gold. She held in a yelp as Dominax's squeezed her rump, biting back her shame. "I'll endure, grandfather, for the line of House Harlin will not be extinguished."

"Your father is through there." Dominax gestured to a corridor branching from Witlan's tomb. "No need for a guide beyond this point, for I'm well aware. Come. The gift I promised is inside."

His words filled her with dread. Once more it was her turn to follow, moving through the passage to emerge into the wide rectangular chamber. The sarcophagus of King Siril The First sat precisely where she remembered, thankfully untouched beside her mother's. The two gold sarcophaguses remained in the center of the chamber, wide apart as always, yet she was surprised to see two others. They were placed at either end of the tomb against the walls, their stone lids open.

"Not as lavish as your forebears, yet they'll do for now." Dominax strolled to the left sarcophagus, taking her arm in his once more. "Your brother was a fool. Never can that be denied. His death was a necessity, perhaps even deserved, yet he fought at the side of his men until his fall. Though certainly no Prince Alrin, I've decided to permit him a royal burial."

The sting of his words was wiped away by her surprise. "Then this is... his?"

The God Emperor nodded. "Let him rest in his defeat, for he can do no further harm. My healers are preparing his body now. Such is my generosity to you, an act of peace."

"Thank you," Witla whispered after a moment. She then looked to the other empty sarcophagus. "And that?"

"Your future, a place of prestige within a king's tomb. In years to come, should you remain loyal to The Empire until your inevitable death, I'll permit you to rest with your royal family." Dominax cupped her chin, guiding her to meet his eyes. "You offer your service, your womb, your loyalty. There is the end of that path." He nodded across the room. "The end of a life of duty, of luxury beneath my throne. Earn it."

Determination returned to her eyes. "Escort me to my bed, and I shall. You have my word."

"How easy that would be. No. I'd have you here." He led her to the center of the chamber, standing beside her father's sarcophagus.

"My lord... not here..." she felt his hands on her hips, pulling her close. A touch of his lips to hers reddened her cheeks further, tasting him.

"As I said, earn it. You seek your father's throne? What better place to continue his legacy than at his side?" He placed his hand atop her smooth midriff, sensing her fertility. "Show me you're ready. Show me you crave what I offer. The bloodline of House Harlin continues through me, or not at all."

Witla felt as though her heart would beat through her chest. The history of her House had led to this singular moment, its fate within her hands. She would not be their destruction. She would not fail her ancestors. The moment lingered, nearly slipping through her fingers before she kissed him once more.

He began to explore her body, caressing her hips. "A wise choice, yet still you remain unready."

Panic filled her. "My lord, I don't understand..."

"You merely endure, yet I'd rather have you moan." Dominax cupped her breasts, carefully circling her nipples until they grew firm again. "There is no place for reluctance in this. Calm yourself, and I'll ensure your pleasure matches my own."

She bit her lip, feeling his slow thumbs. She breathed, trying to obey, to calm her nerves as she focused upon his touch. "You are... not what I expected, my lord."

Dominax smirked, feeling her hard buds with each brush. "Of course. Savages merely destroy. I burn away the old only to bring forth the new."

Witla felt herself twitch with each movement, her misgivings fading with each second as she focused upon the sensation of breasts. When she parted her lips, she allowed the smallest hint of a moan to escape.

"An adequate start." Dominax pulled her firmly against him, lips to hers as he slid his hand down her back. Grabbing her elegant rump, he felt soft royal flesh in his palm, moving to bite her neck. "Your screams will awaken your ancestors when I fill you. Let them hear."

A hot breath eased from her lips, surprised by his primal passion. She felt shame redden her beautiful face, tempted to stop as it nearly proved too much for her to bear. "I'll do what I must. Allow me to... serve you."

Wrapping his arms around her, she gasped when her feet left the floor. She felt the cold gold against her rump as he sat her atop her father's sarcophagus, protected only by thin silk. The position placed their loins at equal height, and he reached down to caress her legs. Pale royal skin glided beneath his fingertips, feeling the feminine shape of her graceful thighs.

Tingles cascaded through her skin everywhere he touched, her entire body an erogenous zone beneath his experienced hands. "I... I must warn you." Witla swallowed, attempting to regain her resilient composure. "I've yet to... enjoy a man."

Dominax chuckled. "A legendary beauty untouched. Curious."

"I've saved myself for my future bondmate, as was my duty." She felt a dampness between her thighs at his touch, wetting the fabric resting between her thighs until it clung to her lower lips. When he began to spread her legs, her nerves caused her body to subtly quiver. "I suppose... you've made that irrelevant."

"Find a bondmate if you'd like. I'll even permit you to love him, so long as he remembers who your womb truly belongs to." He moved between her legs, his hand creeping up her thigh. His keen senses took in the scent of her virgin vagina, savoring her. "The mixed blood of Houses Vaid and Harlin, the only future for Harin."

Closer and closer his hand crept, making her shiver with an anticipation she couldn't help but despise. When his fingertips brushed against her labia, she gasped once more. Instinct incited her legs to close, only to be forced open fully by his powerful hands. Utterly at his mercy, she bit her lip in shame.

The sensation of soaked silk sliding from between her legs as Dominax dragged it out of the way made her mouth open with a silent breath. Vulnerable and waiting, her womanhood was revealed to him fully.

He ran a finger between her lower lips, drenched in her virgin juices. "Long have you waited, it seems. It's unnatural to deny your urges."

"It's a sacrifice we make for decency," she said, her tone attempting to sound firm as she clung to her dignity.

"Northern nobility knows nothing of decency," he countered as his thumb ran softly over her sensitive clit. The quivering reaction of her body told him all he needed to know. "For a thousand years your ancestors watched as mine butchered each other. Tonight, we rectify that injustice, uniting our blood."

She felt his finger slowly glide inside, covering her mouth with her hand. It began to stroke, as if knowing exactly where her most sensitive area was.

A satisfied grin ripped across his face as her eyes clenched shut. She did all she could to restrain a moan, yet he tore it from her lips with the skill of a single finger.

Her inexperienced vagina pulsed in reaction to his intrusion, defenseless. He seemed to know her body better than her own fingers, causing her breaths to deepen with each moment. She should hate him, conqueror of her home, murderer of her twin, yet her loins cared little. She shook atop her father's sarcophagus as he brought her to orgasm, her graceful form seizing in spasms.

"Inhale the aroma of Harin's future," Dominax chuckled, raising his hand to display her dripping juices.

Utter shame seeped into every ounce of her being, feeling the gold surface growing wet beneath her. "Forgive me father..."

Reaching down, Dominax opened the groin slit of his one-suit. She watched with wide eyes as he freed his cock, trying to conceal her horror at the sight of its size. The feeling of its tip touching her most intimate area parted her lips in a deep gasp.

"Please... be gentle, and I shall be yours. Our bargain cannot be sealed if I am damaged," she requested, attempting to sound stern despite the quiver in her tone. She pressed her palms against the gold surface behind her to support herself in preparation. "I'm... ready..."

"There would be little wisdom in harming a valuable asset. As I said, I'll make you enjoy this." His hand returned between her legs, massaging her loins as they shuddered in the sensitive afterglow of her climax. A touch of her soaking clit made her bite her lip, and a few moments under his expert touch made her hips subtly rock as if begging for more.

Every passing second lessened her shame, replaced by a growing desire she couldn't control. This man... this monster had the blood of tens of thousands upon his hands. It'd be justified to drive a dagger into his back. Instead, he'd drain his seed inside her.

When she was more than ready, soaking as her loins waited, he took hold of his manhood to guide himself inside. The tip teased her delicate pink labia, parting to accept him eagerly. The tight entrance of her virgin vagina squeezed him as he slid an inch inside, chuckling at the exquisite sensation of her womanhood.

Whatever dignity she used to shield herself crumbled in an instant. She felt herself stretching around his girth, releasing a pained cry. Her natural lubrication lessened her pain, to her great relief, yet she felt as though she'd tear apart.

Testing her, he began to move his hips to slide and inch or two within her, back and forth. Slowly, he allowed her to adjust to his intrusion, sensing her pain to know precisely when to retreat.

Her fingernails tried to dig into the gold as she groaned, feeling him venture deeper and deeper. Her thighs pressed against his hips as if they could stop him, yet he paid them no mind.

Easing in and out, he finally made his way fully inside, leaving no doubt of who claimed her virginity. The feeling of a cock touching her cervix for the first time caused her arms to tremble as they supported her, threatening to collapse.

He held onto her thighs, pushing, easing out, and pushing again. Each plunge into her tight embrace sent a primal pleasure rippling through his groin, knowing his only goal was to get her pregnant.

Gritting her teeth, she glared with defiance, only for her eyes to flutter as any resistance shattered. Her lips parted, unable to hold in her enjoyment any longer.

He built her pleasure alongside his own, her body adapting as it felt the satisfaction of a deep breeding for the first time. His potent seed waited to spill forth and complete its duty. Her ovum nearly called to him, her fertile womb eager to serve its duty.

His finger began to trace over the tattoos upon her belly, thinking of Irith. The matching symbols bound twin to twin, yet Witla's counterpart was gone. He had brought down the brother and conquered the sister.

"Siril... I'm sorry... I'm so sorry..." she thought to herself, disgusted as he touched the white markings upon her skin, yet unable to resist moaning. Part of her wanted to cut his throat. Another part wanted to cry out for his seed.

Dominax caressed her body, his advanced ears hearing every faint sound of their wet interlocked loins. They slapped together, drenching his cock with each deep thrust.

The pain of her virginity lingered in the form of a throbbing ache, lessening minute after minute. When it was beyond her notice, his careful rhythm gradually changed, becoming more forceful. Never did she escape the feeling that she'd rip, yet now it mixed with her ecstasy, almost adding to it.

Her raging emotions clashed, burning inside her until she felt she'd be consumed. Shame and hatred mixed with a primal need, making her want to scream. The God Emperor towered above her, his crown atop his head, armored and deadly as he claimed her.

Dominax leaned forward to kiss her, sensing the war within her. Lips met, resisting before easing until they parted with a moan. His tongue found hers, dancing, exchanging saliva until she could no longer bear her lust. Her hips bucked, body trembling as she was forced into another orgasm.

"Good. Revel in our union. Show your father how well you serve his bloodline," Dominax teased, continuing to move his hips. Hard jabs deep into her depths at precise moments caused a long whimper to cry from her mouth, extending her climax to its fullest potential.

She found herself losing control, unable to support herself as she fell onto her back in a quivering heap. Her body convulsed, reacting to each hard thrust. She sucked in a gasping breath when she finally broke free of her bliss, her loins erupting with sensitivity.

He forcefully rotated her body to lie atop the sarcophagus, joining her as if it were a bed. He knelt between her legs, driving himself deep into his mate as she cried out.

Spreading her legs wide, she lost herself to pleasure, moaning as he held himself atop her. She wanted him as deep as possible, little more than animals seeking to mate. She wanted his seed. She wanted his cock. She wanted a brave northerner to stab him through the back and save her from her shame.

"You could have stopped him... Siril. You could have prevented this horror..." she thought to herself as her head rolled back, feeling as though she'd finish again in mere minutes. "Don't hate me. You can't hate me. I'm saving our legacy..."

The white armor of The God Emperor scratched the gold surface of the sarcophagus where his knees were placed, caring little. They'd only be a reminder of what occurred, a permanent whisper of their deed for the future generations that would come from this night.

"Your ancestors... ahh... are watching. Cum for them. Show them how their descendant begs to continue their bloodline," he commanded, his hot breath against her neck.

"I... I must get pregnant. I... ahh... I'll continue... the... ooohhh..." Witla shook beneath him, eyes rolling back.

Dominax chuckled, watching every detail of her expression as she cried out. The perspiration that had built from their exertions shimmering across her skin in the torchlight, her fiery hair trickling down her perky breasts in a waterfall of orange.

Utterly lost to his expert thrusts, she raised her feet when she could manage, stretching in bliss. The God Emperor reached back to caress her ankle, sliding his hand down the long length of her elegant leg.

"Speak their names. Who brought you to me? Whose blood is inside this fertile body of yours?"

"Haricala... ahh... Targalin..." she held onto his arms tightly. "Harlil..."

"More. Let your ancestors... ahh... know you remember them while they hear your moans from their tombs. Their exquisite descendant... ahh... taking the seed of her conqueror."

Shame forced a deep moan that nearly destroyed her, emotions raging. She was utterly dominated, her body claimed as they desecrated this sacred place, yet she could only writhe in bliss. "King Rilan... ahh... King Arlir... King... K... King Witlan... grandfather..."

Her orgasmic cries echoed through her father's tomb. Arousal flooded Dominax as he savored the taboo deed, biting her neck in a primal heat. "Good girl. Your ancestors provided this womb for my use... ahh... and I shall reward them with a dynasty that shall rule Harin eternally. Kings and queens of our blood... a new House Harlin of my design."

Witla could hardly endure, her vagina burning with sensitive satisfaction. Her juices leaked across the golden surface of King Siril The First's sarcophagus, dripping from its decorated edge. She remembered the moment her father slipped into death in her arms, overcome by the announcement of The Empire's invasion of Spirexia. If he could see her now, dead eyes opening to watch his precious daughter enraptured by their conqueror's cock, she wondered if he'd perish again. "This... this is the only way..."

Dominax slammed into her with deep, powerful thrusts, unable to stop himself. He sensed flickers of pain from his mate, yet he'd force her to bear it for the moment. "Our time approaches... ahh. Prepare yourself... for the future shall be conceived..."

"Yes..." she moaned, no longer holding back. She switched to her native language, her words coming smoothly. "Get me pregnant! Give me... ahh... my heir, bloodthirsty tyrant! You deserve... ahh... to face justice! You deserve a blade in your neck!" She wrapped her legs around his waist, her body begging to breed. "Give me your... ahh... seed!"

He pushed deep into her royal body, throwing his head back with a roar of victory as he flooded her womb. Pleasure erupted from the tip of his cock as he spurted heavy bursts of potent seed within her. Long had he craved to see this day. Long had he fought to claim all of humanity as his own. Now, he forced a child of his own blood into the last womb of the most ancient and legendary House of his species, seizing their legacy for his own offspring.

His seed oozed from the climaxing loins of Princess Witla of House Harlin, leaking heavily onto the sarcophagus of a dead king.

Humanity was avenged, yet the conquest of Magnius was merely beginning.